Last
week’s batch of Couple-ish episodes saw
the odd couple finally finding some common footing via a minor heart-to-heart
over breakfast and a little bit of fun in their newest vlog update. We learn
that Rachel, for an as-of-yet unknown reason, has been disowned by her mother
back home, resulting in her need to remain in Canada. We also see more of Dee’s
workaholic attitude when it comes to their work as an illustrator. Both
instances create a moment of quiet understanding between two people who hate
each other, but undeniably need each other. Which is probably the most fun
dynamic to play with and see.

The
other interesting bit we got we the first blatant reference to Dee’s gender identity.
Kaitlyn Alexander confirmed via social media that future episodes will be
solely devoted to Dee’s identity, in order to give this story element the time
and attention it deserves (especially considering the personal connection many
viewers may have to the plotline). But Dee asked for the gendered “Girlfriend”
tag game to be renamed to the gender-neutral “Partner” tag. It doesn’t seem
like much, perhaps, but it proves even the smallest moments in life aren’t
always friendly to everyone. It was a nice moment, if born out of some
unfortunate binary truths about the way society works.

The
other nice thing this episode explored was the use of the Internet. This is one
of the few webseries I’ve encountered that actively tries to break its own
fourth wall. Carmilla came close as
the actual audience that comprised the viewership on YouTube also became a part
of the story as “Laura’s viewers,” and later her “private channel” when her
videos were on lockdown. With this, the social media is more in-story but it
creates an interesting commentary, referencing “Tumblr famous” blogs,
subscribers, and view counts. Essentially, it comes to feel almost like one part
metafiction on modern day internet media in addition to its two parts sitcom.
This owes itself to Alexander’s extensive work as a YouTube personality on
their own channel. And it’s working well in the story, which has a unique place
among floods of webseries utilizing transmedia in ways The Lizzie Bennet Diaries made popular.

But
in preparation for this week, here’s what went down last week...

The
episode opens with Dee passed out on the floor and Rachel on the (semi)quiet
prowl for breakfast. They have a bit of a disagreement over their current
situation (again), where Rachel reveals her family has disowned her back in
England. Amy arrives home to inform them their channel has gone viral after she
posted the video on her Tumblr.

The
next episode opens as another one of Dee and Rachel’s vlog updates, this time
honoring 5,000 subscribers with a Q&A. The title “The Girlfriend Tag”
ruffles Dee a bit, who asks they name it the “The Partner Tag.” After a few
beers they begin delving into questions, making up answers as a game of
revenge. By the end of the game they find themselves having fun before signing
off.

Check the Couple-ish YouTube channel every Wednesday and Saturday for new episodes!